Special Olympics Alabama State Games Return to TROY

TROY - Nearly 1,000 athletes and about 350 of their coaches and chaperones will compete May 16 - 18 in the Special Olympics Alabama State Games at Troy University.

This year's event marks the eighth straight year Special Olympians have competed at TROY.

Competitions will include 10 sports conducted both on the Troy Campus and at venues in the city of Troy, beginning with the opening ceremonies at 7 p.m. May 16 in Trojan Arena. The ceremony will include a parade of athletes, special welcomes and entertainment.

Sporting events begin on May 17 at 9 a.m. at various venues. Sport events include swimming, gymnastics, equestrian, bowling, track and field, softball, cycling, bocce, power lifting, flag football and golf. A Victory Dance will be held Saturday night.

Closing ceremonies will be conducted May 18 and will include a memorial service for those athletes who have died in the past year.

Volunteers for the State Games are being sought, said Dean of Students Herb Reeves.

"The athletes are very excited to be returning to TROY," said Dean of Students Herb Reeves. "Not only would we extend an invitation for students and community members to participate in the special ceremonies, but volunteers are very important in order to make this event a success," he said.